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Entry Level Animal Care Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

Kennel Tech

Sparks, NV · On-site

$18/hr

Animal Care Attendant - Spanish Springs Pet Resort Spanish Springs Pet Resort is looking for a ... Position Overview: * Experience is not required - this is an entry-level position with ...

Kennel Tech

Sparks, NV · On-site

$18 - $21/wk

Animal Care Attendant - Spanish Springs Pet Resort Spanish Springs Pet Resort is looking for a ... Position Overview: * Experience is not required - this is an entry-level position with ...

S., Mexico and Puerto Rico, 250+ Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics ... Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ...

S., Mexico and Puerto Rico, 250+ Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics ... Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ...

Entry Level Animal Care information

See Reno, NV salary details

$10

$18

$26

How much do entry level animal care jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animal care in Reno, NV is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level animal care job?

Entry level animal care jobs involve assisting in the daily care and well-being of animals in settings such as shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos, or pet boarding facilities. Responsibilities typically include feeding, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, providing enrichment, and sometimes assisting with basic grooming or medical tasks. These positions often require a genuine love for animals, attention to detail, and the ability to work physically demanding shifts. Entry level roles serve as a foundation for those interested in pursuing advanced careers in animal care or veterinary medicine.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an entry level animal care worker?

As an entry level animal care worker, your day-to-day tasks usually include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health and behavior, and assisting with basic grooming or exercise routines. You’ll likely work closely with senior staff, veterinarians, and sometimes interact with the public, especially if you’re in a shelter or zoo environment. Attention to detail and strong observation skills are important, as early detection of health issues is a key part of the role. The work can be physically demanding but highly rewarding for animal lovers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level animal care worker?

To thrive as an Entry Level Animal Care worker, you need basic animal handling skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning protocols, animal restraint equipment, and record-keeping systems is typically required. Compassion, patience, and strong teamwork skills help you build trust with animals and collaborate effectively with colleagues. These skills ensure the well-being of animals, maintain facility standards, and support a safe, supportive environment for both animals and staff.

What is the difference between Entry Level Animal Care vs Veterinary Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Animal CareVeterinary Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications optionalHigh school diploma; some certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, pet stores, kennelsVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, pet organizationsVeterinary practices, animal healthcare industry
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Animal Care vs Veterinary Assistant

Entry Level Animal Care roles focus on basic animal handling and care in shelters or pet stores, often requiring minimal certifications. Veterinary Assistants work in clinics, assisting veterinarians with medical tasks, and may need specific certifications. Both roles involve working closely with animals, but Veterinary Assistants typically have more medical responsibilities and work in clinical settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Care jobs in Reno, NV?

The most popular types of Animal Care jobs in Reno, NV are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Reno, NV?

For Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Reno, NV look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animal Care jobs in Reno, NV are:

What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Entry Level Animal Care jobs?

Cities near Reno, NV with the most Entry Level Animal Care job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Care job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,945 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Animal Caretaker

Washoe Valley, NV • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

At Canine Rehabilitation Center and Cat Sanctuary (CRCCS), we are more than an animal shelter. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to giving dogs and cats the care, rehabilitation, structure, and second chances they deserve. Our work combines sheltering, behavior support, rehabilitation, and compassionate daily care to help animals heal and thrive.


We are seeking a dedicated, dependable, and hard-working Animal Caretaker to join our team. This is an entry-level position with an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of our dogs every day. If you are passionate about animal welfare, enjoy hands-on work, and want to be part of a mission-driven organization, we encourage you to apply.

POSITION SUMMARY
The Animal Caretaker provides essential daily support for CRCCS shelter dogs and program dogs. In this role, you will help improve each dog’s quality of life by preparing meals and medications, setting up rooms, cleaning and sanitizing the facility, and walking dogs. This position plays a vital role in maintaining a safe, healthy, and enriching environment for the animals in our care.


Applicants should have some prior experience working with dogs and be comfortable in a physically active, fast-paced setting.


WHAT YOU'LL DO
    1. Daily Animal Care

  • Provide daily care, attention, and support to dogs in our shelter and programs
  • Feed, water, clean, and groom animals
  • Bathe animals as needed
  • Prepare food and medications according to instructions
  • Set up rooms and care areas for dogs

     2. Facility Cleaning and Sanitation

  • Clean and sanitize animal enclosures
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the facility, grounds, and equipment
  • Support overall organization and cleanliness to ensure a safe environment for animals and staff

    3. Dog Handling and Enrichment

  • Walk and work with dogs according to your skill set and training
  • Provide enrichment activities for sanctuary dogs
  • Feed specific dogs based on approval from the Training & Enrichment team and according to CRCCS’ structured feeding routine

    4. Teamwork and Communication

  • Work cooperatively with team members to support the health and well-being of all animals in our care
  • Communicate with veterinarians and other qualified professionals when needed to help ensure the best care possible
  • Follow all safety protocols, procedures, and handling guidelines
  • Maintain a positive attitude and strong work ethic in all situations


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This is a highly physical position. Animal caretakers should be comfortable with:

  • Standing, walking, bending, and lifting throughout the day
  • Handling physically active job duties during an entire shift
  • Working both indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
  • Taking dogs on multiple outings each day, including during hot or cold weather


Nature is our office, so applicants should be comfortable working outdoors in all weather.


WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Some prior experience working with dogs

  • Upbeat tempo and positive attitude
  • A genuine passion for animal welfare
  • Reliability, patience, and a team-oriented mindset
  • Comfort with physically demanding work
  • Willingness to work in changing weather conditions
  • Commitment to providing compassionate, consistent care


Why Join CRCCS?

This position offers the opportunity to meaningfully impact the lives of animals while working alongside a supportive team in a mission-driven environment. Every task you complete contributes directly to the comfort, safety, and progress of the dogs in our care.


Job Type

Full-time


Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Flexible schedule


Commute Requirement

Ability to commute to Washoe Valley, NV 89704 is required.


Work Location

In person